Ford Outshines in J.D. Power Initial Quality Study

For the first time ever, US automakers have edged out Japan in initial quality.

According to J.D. Power's Initial Quality Study, Ford and GM saw dramatic improvements, while Toyota saw its position drop. The survey covered new cars purchased between November 2009 and February 2010, during Toyota's massive recall headaches over sticky accelerator pedals, floormats and braking.

Ford jumped to the top-rated non-luxury brand for the first time in the study's history, moving from eighth place to fifth, with Lincoln moving all the way from 26th to eighth. Acura moved up to the second spot overall, up from 14th in 2009.

Mini was the most improved brand, while the Honda Accord Crosstour, Ford Taurus, Lexus GX 460 and Porsche Panamera all ranked highest in their segments.

Here is the full list of rankings below: